Seventy-five years ago, on April 11, 1951, President Harry S. Truman relieved General Douglas MacArthur of his commands during the Korean War. The celebrated World War II hero had publicly disagreed with administration policy by advocating escalation against China and challenging efforts to limit the conflict. Debates persist over the merits of Truman’s and MacArthur’s opposing views of the proper way to conduct the war, but Truman’s decision firmly upheld the constitutional principle of civilian control of the military: elected leaders, not generals, set national policy—even amid wartime pressures and with a hugely popular commander. Controversial then, the relief’s legacy endures, informing ongoing discussions on character, conscience, and the balance between military and civilian authority.

To mark the 75th anniversary, the MacArthur Memorial in partnership with the Truman Library is hosting a half-day symposium that will examine the relief from both Truman’s and MacArthur’s perspectives, situate it in the context of broader American military history, and explore its ongoing legacy. Speakers include Mark Adams (Director, Harry S. Truman Presidential Library and Museum), Dr. Tim Orr (Associate Professor of Military History, Old Dominion University), and Jim Zobel (Archivist, MacArthur Memorial).

FAQs

Do I need to register?

This event is free but registration is encouraged. Reserve your seat on Eventbite!

Where is the event?

This event will take place in the MacArthur Memorial Visitor Center theater located at 150 Bank Street, Norfolk, VA.

Where can I park?

Parking tickets from the South Deck of MacArthur Center Mall can be validated for up to three hours for event attendees. Parking rates apply after three hours. Bring your ticket to the Visitor Center desk for validation. The museum is also located next to a Tide Light Rail station and city bus stop.

Is the building accessible?

All MacArthur Memorial buildings are accessible.

When do doors open?

Doors open at 8:00AM. There will be coffee and tea in the Visitors Center Great Hall throughout the event.

I will not be in Norfolk, Va that day. Can I attend virtually?

Yes! This event will be livestreamed. To gain access to the livestream, which will allow you to also participate in the Q&A sessions, please register for virtual attendance on StreamYard!

How do I learn more about supporting the MacArthur Memorial?

We invite you to join the MacArthur Committee of the General Douglas MacArthur Foundation, which provides support for MacArthur Memorial public programming, exhibits, education programs, and collection conservation.